March 27th marks World Theatre Day, a global celebration in appreciation of live theatre! As a theatre critic, I have the joy and pleasure of witnessing live performances on a very regular basis and to share that passion with all of you! However, today is a great day to reflect on the amazing theatre we’ve seen lately, as well as look to the future of the theatre industry here in Toronto, in Canada, and beyond.

This year’s Canadian Ambassador, on behalf of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres, is Jani Lauzon; a truly visionary artist, I am consistently challenged and inspired by her work. Her video for World Theatre Day is a poignant message we all need to hear:

Towards the beginning, she says: “We got a taste of life without these moments over the last few years. We stayed home, we isolated as we were told to do. And now we are faced with a choice; be complacent or rally together to ensure that our ability to be together, learning about each other, remains an important part of our lives.” This speaks to me on so many levels: while we were away from theatre I had myriad concerns over what I was going to do if theatre couldn’t come back. Now that I’m in my current position, I’m trying to inspire more people to get out and support live performance across the city.

I also firmly believe in Lauzon’s message to use theatre to learn about one another. I frequently see and write about productions from cultures different from my own. Each one I take as an opportunity to learn more regarding those cultures and the stories they share through their theatre, as well as encouraging others to do so. As Lauzon says “But I am craving some glimmer of hope….no, a guarantee, that we will continue to be curious
about ourselves. That we will still yearn for intellectual stimulation, and we will remain active in our pursuit of excellence as a human species; striving for love and acceptance only achieved when we better understand one another. This is what live theatre affords us, the opportunity to get to know each other through stories. Stories that feed our minds, stories that feed our hearts and souls.”

Jeffrey Eric Jenkins is the President of the International Association of Theatre Critics, to which I belong as a member of the Canadian Theatre Critics Association. In his statement for World Theatre Day, he says:

“World Theatre Day reminds us of the critical role of theatre in preserving cultural heritage and promoting genuine human connection in an increasingly digital world. The intimacy of live performance fosters empathy, understanding, and a sense of community, essential in countering the isolation created by screens and technology.

Theatre can be an important platform for the marginalized and the silenced. It challenges societal norms, confronts injustices, and stimulates dialogue. Theatre has the power to inspire change, from groundbreaking works addressing race, gender, and sexuality to productions illuminating forgotten histories.

World Theatre Day also calls us to acknowledge the hurdles facing the theatre community, especially highlighted by the pandemic’s devastating impact. The resilience of this community in the face of adversity—through virtual and outdoor performances—demonstrated the unyielding spirit of theatre.

As we look forward, supporting and nurturing emerging talent is crucial for the continued
vibrancy of theatre. Investment in arts education and providing opportunities for aspiring artists will ensure the enduring relevance of this ancient art. Making theatre more accessible and inclusive will help dismantle barriers, making it a more universal embodiment of expression.

Let World Theatre Day stand as a testament to the indomitability of the human spirit. Let it reaffirm our capacity for creativity, empathy, and resilience. In a world fragmented by political and ideological divides, let theatre unite us in our shared humanity.”

I hope that you’re able to get out and see a show today! If you do, make sure to use the following hashtags on social media: #GoSeeAShow #RallyForTheatre and #WorldTheatreDay

The best thing you can do for the theatre community is to get out there and see a show! It doesn’t matter how big or small, anything you can do to help our community and ensure the perseverance of theatre is welcome and appreciated.

Happy World Theatre Day!

---

Thank you to my Patrons:

B. Kinnon, D. Moyes

And to my supporters who’ve bought me a coffee:

Angelica and Paul, Anonymous

Would you like to become a Patron? Check out my Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/AViewfromtheBox

Or, you can buy me a coffee at: buymeacoffee.com/aviewfromthebox